Appetite Loss

The Problem
You are simply not hungry; you may have to force yourself to eat

Causes of Appetite Loss
Aging. You are over 60, and you feel hungry less often. The process of aging can decrease appetite without significant weight loss. As people age, their metabolism slows down and their muscle mass decreases; they don't need as many calories, so their appetite decrease to compensate. In addition, taste sensation and stomach secretions diminish, contributing to appetite loss.

Anorexia nervosa. You eat very little, and you have lost a great deal of weight. You are constantly being told how thin you are, but don't understand why; you think you are fat. If you are female, you may have stopped having menstrual periods. Anorexia nervosa is a disease that mostly affects women and adolescent girls, causing them to virtually deny the need to eat. Self-care is never sufficient for this disorder, which can be life-threatening if not effectively treated.

Self-Care Measures
If you are taking one or more medications and you haven't been hungry lately, consult your doctor about a possible change in medication.
Eat small, frequent, appetizing meals. Eating foods that especially appeal to you is a good way to stimulate your appetite and to get the calories you need.

Prevention
Take a daily vitamin-and-mineral supplement. Zinc deficiency can cause a loss of appetite by diminishing or alering taste. Over-the-counter supplements can correct this condition.